Peer recovery support services (PRSS) are increasingly being offered across diverse criminal justice settings to address opioid abuse and achieve positive outcomes. The power and potential of PRSS come from the unique roles that peers play, promoting both hope and pragmatic steps for change. Emerging models for comprehensive programs integrate peer supports with other services, including case management and other recovery supports, for individuals with behavioral health and substance use disorders at all intercepts of the justice system continuum. However, these services are often more difficult to access in small towns and rural communities. This webinar discusses the work that the Berkeley County Recovery Resource Center, Faces and Voices of Recovery (FAVOR)—Greenville and the Fairfield Ohio Overdose Response Team are doing to implement peer support services in rural areas.

This session describes peer support programs in operation in micropolitan and rural communities; clarifies the roles of peers in each of these programs, as well as the impact peers are having; discusses key program partnerships; explains how these programs evaluate their work; and highlights the opportunities and challenges of operating peer programs in small towns and rural communities.

To view a PDF version of the slide deck from this webinar, click here.